At the annual Google I/O conference, the American firm presented a number of new features designed to optimise time spent in your car. Easily locate a recharging station, take part in Zoom meetings or watch YouTube videos while stationary… Find out more about these features that aim to considerably improve the driving experience.
Watching videos behind the wheel?
In the coming weeks, the direct competitor to Apple CarPlay plans to offer new applications within its ecosystem, including YouTube video playback.
This feature has naturally caused a stir, with road safety associations in particular expressing concern about drivers’ concentration levels due to potential distractions. Google has allayed fears by stating that this application will only be available when the vehicle is stationary.
Zoom meetings while driving
In addition to YouTube, other applications are expected to be integrated into Android Automotive, including video conferencing solutions such as Zoom, Webex by Cisco and Microsoft Teams. These applications will be able to be used both while stationary and on the move, allowing drivers to take part in meetings without taking their eyes off the road.
This feature once again raises questions about driving performance. Tesla was the first brand to introduce video conferencing applications in its operating system. However, Google says that you will only be able to take part in meetings using the microphone, without the picture.
Fun and communication
“We continue to improve the experience and offer applications that meet two major needs of drivers: entertainment and communication,” explains Roshan Khan, Director of Management at Google.
GameSnacks, Google’s no-download mobile games platform, currently has almost one million players per month on Android Auto. The platform will now be available in cars with integrated Google. Drivers will have access to popular games such as Beach Buggy Racing 2, Solitaire FRVR and My Talking Tom Friends, developed by renowned publishers such as Vector Unit, FRVR and Outfit7 Limited.
Another upcoming feature in Google-enabled cars will allow drivers to stay in touch with friends and family while on the move. The Google Assistant will offer intelligent suggestions to enable them to quickly reply to messages, share their arrival time and much more.
Convenient navigation features
To make navigation and finding charging stations easier for electric vehicles, Waze is now being integrated into more Google-powered cars. As well as being available on Android Auto, Waze is accessible via the Google Play Store. This makes it possible to take advantage of the application’s features, such as real-time traffic reports and road closures, directly on the car’s screen.
The aim of these latest features is to help drivers navigate easily and safely, stay connected and have fun, both on and off the road. These new updates for vehicles compatible with Android Auto and cars with integrated Google should be available by the end of 2023.
